How Social Skills Help Teens Build Healthy Relationships (Including with Mom & Dad!)

Navigating relationships as a teen can be challenging—whether it’s making friends, handling peer pressure, or maintaining a positive connection with parents. Social skills play a key role in shaping these relationships and can significantly impact a teen’s confidence, emotional well-being, and future success. By developing strong social skills, teens can build meaningful friendships, improve communication with family, and create a supportive network that enhances their overall mental health.

The Power of Social Skills in Friendships

Friendships are an essential part of adolescence, providing a sense of belonging, emotional support, and shared experiences. However, many teens struggle with starting conversations, maintaining friendships, or navigating social conflicts. When teens develop skills such as active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution, they gain the tools to build and sustain healthy peer relationships.

For example, a teen who learns to read social cues and respond appropriately in conversations is more likely to feel included and accepted. Additionally, understanding how to set boundaries and handle disagreements respectfully helps prevent toxic friendships and builds stronger, healthier connections.

Strengthening the Parent-Teen Relationship

The relationship between teens and their parents often faces challenges, especially as teens strive for independence. However, social skills can enhance communication, trust, and mutual respect between teens and their parents.

One of the biggest struggles in the parent-teen dynamic is effective communication. Teens who develop assertive communication skills can express their needs, emotions, and concerns without shutting down or resorting to arguments. Similarly, when parents practice active listening and respond with empathy, it creates an environment where teens feel heard and understood.

For instance, instead of responding with frustration when asked about their day, a teen with strong communication skills might say, “I had a tough day at school, and I need a little space before talking about it.” This simple shift fosters a more positive, respectful interaction, strengthening the bond between parent and child.

Building Emotional Intelligence for Better Relationships

Emotional intelligence—the ability to recognize, understand, and manage emotions—is crucial for all relationships. When teens develop emotional intelligence, they become more self-aware, regulate their emotions effectively, and express themselves in ways that promote positive interactions.

For example, a teen who recognizes their anger triggers can pause before reacting impulsively in a heated discussion. Instead of lashing out, they might take a deep breath, articulate their feelings, and engage in problem-solving. This skill is valuable not only in friendships but also in family relationships, reducing unnecessary conflicts and promoting harmony at home.

The Role of a Social Skills Group

If your teen struggles with communication, confidence, or navigating social situations, a structured social skills group can be an excellent resource. A social skills group provides a safe and supportive environment where teens can practice essential skills such as making eye contact, handling peer pressure, managing emotions, and resolving conflicts.

Through role-playing, guided discussions, and real-life practice, teens gain the confidence they need to interact with others in a healthy and positive way. Plus, they get the opportunity to build friendships with peers who are also working on improving their social skills.

Join Our Social Skills Group in Tampa!

Starting in March, we’re launching our next round of evening social skills group for teens in Tampa to help them build confidence, improve communication, and strengthen relationships—including the one with mom and dad! Led by a caring therapist, this group will offer a fun and supportive space for teens to develop the skills they need to thrive in their social world.

If you’re interested in learning more or signing up your teen, contact us today! Let’s help teens build stronger, healthier relationships—starting with the ones that matter most.

Helping Teens Build Confidence & Connection: Join Our Social Skills Therapy Group in Tampa

Navigating the teen years can be challenging, especially for those who struggle with social interactions. If your teen finds it difficult to make friends, maintain conversations, or feel confident in social settings, a structured social skills therapy group could be the support they need.

We’re excited to announce our 12-week Social Skills Therapy Group, starting in March! Sessions will be held on Thursday evenings in Tampa, providing a safe and supportive environment where teens can develop essential social skills, boost self-esteem, and form meaningful connections.

Who Would Benefit from This Group?

Many different types of teens can benefit from a social skills group. These include:

Teens with Social Anxiety

Some teens experience extreme nervousness in social settings, making it difficult to engage in conversations or participate in group activities. This group helps them build confidence through structured exercises and supportive peer interactions.

Teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

For teens with ASD, understanding social cues and unspoken rules can be challenging. A social skills group provides guided practice in reading body language, initiating conversations, and forming meaningful relationships in a safe and structured way.

Teens Struggling with Friendships

Making and keeping friends can be difficult for some teens, whether due to shyness, difficulty with communication, or past negative experiences. This group helps them learn the skills needed to form lasting and healthy friendships.

Teens Who Have Difficulty with Conflict Resolution

Many teens struggle with handling disagreements, standing up for themselves, or resolving conflicts in a healthy manner. Through role-playing and guided discussions, they will learn constructive ways to navigate conflicts and improve their communication skills.

Teens with Low Self-Esteem

Low self-esteem can make social interactions feel intimidating and overwhelming. This group provides a supportive space for teens to build confidence, learn how to express themselves, and develop a positive self-image.

How This Group Helps

Our sessions focus on practical skills such as conversation starters, active listening, managing social anxiety, and navigating peer relationships. Through interactive activities, role-playing, and guided discussions, teens will gain tools to feel more comfortable and capable in social situations. Each week, participants will build on their skills, receiving positive reinforcement from peers and the therapist.

Why Group Therapy?

Social skills groups provide a unique opportunity for teens to practice real-life interactions in a structured setting with the guidance of a licensed therapist. Unlike one-on-one therapy, group therapy allows for peer engagement, which helps reinforce learning in a natural and supportive way. Over 12 weeks, participants will develop strategies they can apply in school, friendships, and future social interactions.

Details & How to Join Teen Social Skills Group:

📅 Start Date: March 2025
🕕 When: Thursday Evenings
📍 Where: Serene Mind Tampa Location
⏳ Commitment: 12 weeks

If you believe your teen could benefit from this experience, we’d love to hear from you! Space is limited to ensure a personalized experience for each participant.

📩 Contact us today to learn more and reserve a spot! Let's help your teen build confidence, make connections, and thrive socially.

#TampaTherapy #TeenSocialSkills #ConfidenceBuilding #CounselingForTeens

Empowering Teens with Social Skills for the New School Year

As the new school year approaches, many teens feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. The promise of new beginnings is often accompanied by the pressure to fit in, make friends, and navigate the ever-evolving social landscape. As a counselor, I’ve seen firsthand how challenging these transitions can be, especially for those who struggle with social skills. That’s why I’m passionate about supporting teens in developing the skills they need to thrive socially, not just survive.

The Importance of Social Skills

Social skills are the foundation of meaningful relationships and effective communication. For teens, mastering these skills is crucial as they build their identities and navigate the complex world of peer interactions. From understanding social cues to managing conflict and developing empathy, these abilities are essential for healthy, fulfilling connections with others.

Unfortunately, many teens find social situations overwhelming. The rise of digital communication has added layers of complexity, making face-to-face interactions even more daunting for some. This can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and low self-esteem, which can impact both academic performance and overall well-being.

Addressing the Challenges

The good news is that social skills can be learned and strengthened with practice and support. In our upcoming social skills group starting this September in Tampa, we’re creating a safe and nurturing environment where teens can build confidence and develop the tools they need to succeed in social settings.

Our group is designed to help teens:

• Understand Social Cues: We’ll work on recognizing and interpreting verbal and non-verbal signals, helping teens navigate conversations with greater ease.

• Improve Communication Skills: Through role-playing and guided discussions, participants will practice effective communication, including active listening, clear expression, and respectful dialogue.

• Develop Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Teens will learn to understand and manage their own emotions, as well as recognize and respond to the feelings of others.

• Build Healthy Relationships: We’ll explore the dynamics of healthy friendships, including setting boundaries, resolving conflicts, and fostering trust.

Why Join Our Group?

Starting the school year with enhanced social skills can make a world of difference for teens. It can lead to stronger friendships, increased confidence, and a more positive school experience overall. Our group is open to teens who want to improve their social skills in a supportive, non-judgmental space.

If you’re a parent or guardian of a teen who might benefit from this group, or if you’re a teen reading this and recognize the value of improving your social skills, I encourage you to join us. Together, we can make this school year one of growth, connection, and success.

For more information or to register, please contact us. Let’s empower our teens to shine socially this school year!

Mastering Social Skills: A Key to Lowering Anxiety in Teens and Young Adults

Navigating the complex world of social interactions can be a daunting task, especially for teens and young adults. Social skills, often overlooked in formal education, play a crucial role in our daily lives, influencing our ability to communicate effectively, build relationships, and maintain emotional well-being. For young people, mastering these skills can significantly reduce anxiety and improve overall mental health. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of social skills and how they can help lower anxiety.

Understanding Social Skills

Social skills are the abilities we use to interact and communicate with others. They include verbal and non-verbal communication, listening, empathy, cooperation, and conflict resolution. These skills are essential for forming meaningful relationships, succeeding in academic and professional settings, and navigating the myriad social situations we encounter daily.

The Link Between Social Skills and Anxiety

Anxiety, particularly social anxiety, often stems from a fear of judgment or rejection in social situations. For teens and young adults, this fear can be especially pronounced as they navigate new environments and form their identities. Developing strong social skills can help mitigate these fears by:

1. Building Confidence: Proficiency in social skills can boost self-confidence, making individuals feel more comfortable and competent in social interactions.

2. Reducing Uncertainty: Knowing how to initiate and sustain conversations, interpret social cues, and respond appropriately reduces the uncertainty that often triggers anxiety.

3. Fostering Connection: Positive social interactions lead to the formation of supportive relationships, which can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.

Key Social Skills to Develop

1. Active Listening: Paying full attention to the speaker, understanding their message, and responding thoughtfully.

2. Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others, which helps build stronger connections.

3. Verbal Communication: Clearly expressing thoughts, feelings, and needs through words.

4. Non-Verbal Communication: Using body language, facial expressions, and eye contact to convey messages.

5. Conflict Resolution: Managing and resolving disputes in a constructive manner.

6. Assertiveness: Expressing oneself confidently without being aggressive.

Practical Tips to Enhance Social Skills

1. Practice Makes Perfect: Regularly engaging in social situations, even small ones like greeting a neighbor or chatting with a cashier, helps build confidence and competence.

2. Role-Playing: Practicing different social scenarios with a trusted friend or family member can prepare you for real-life interactions.

3. Mindfulness and Self-Reflection: Being aware of your own feelings and reactions in social situations and reflecting on them can help improve your social skills.

4. Seek Feedback: Asking for constructive feedback from friends, family, or mentors can provide valuable insights into your social interactions.

5. Join Social Groups or Clubs: Participating in activities that interest you can provide natural opportunities to practice social skills in a supportive environment.

Mastering social skills is a powerful tool for reducing anxiety in teens and young adults. By building confidence, reducing uncertainty, and fostering meaningful connections, these skills can lead to a more fulfilling and less anxious life. Remember, social skills can be learned and improved with practice and patience. So, take the first step, start small, and gradually build your social toolkit. Your mental health and well-being will thank you.

The Strength in Sisterhood: How Women Flourish Through Friendships and Community

Friendships and community play a crucial role in the lives of women, offering support, connection, and empowerment. From sharing life's joys and sorrows to navigating challenges and celebrating successes, women benefit immensely from nurturing relationships with friends and being part of a supportive community.

In this blog, we'll explore the myriad ways in which women thrive and find fulfillment through the bonds of friendship and belonging.

1. Emotional Support:

   Friendships provide a vital source of emotional support for women, offering a safe space to express their feelings, fears, and vulnerabilities. Whether it's lending a listening ear during times of distress or offering words of encouragement and empathy, friends provide comfort and solace in times of need. Having a close-knit circle of friends allows women to feel understood, validated, and less alone in their struggles, fostering a sense of belonging and emotional well-being.

2. Shared Experiences and Understanding:

   Women bond over shared experiences, forging deep connections based on mutual understanding and empathy. Whether it's motherhood, career challenges, relationship dynamics, or personal growth journeys, sharing stories and insights with friends helps women feel validated and supported in their experiences. Through these connections, women gain perspective, wisdom, and a sense of solidarity that enriches their lives and strengthens their sense of identity.

3. Empowerment and Encouragement:

   Friendships empower women to embrace their strengths, pursue their passions, and overcome obstacles with confidence. Friends serve as cheerleaders, encouraging each other to dream big, take risks, and challenge societal norms. Whether it's celebrating achievements, offering constructive feedback, or providing a shoulder to lean on during setbacks, friends inspire women to believe in themselves and their potential, fueling their ambition and resilience.

4. Networking and Professional Growth:

   Beyond emotional support, friendships also play a pivotal role in women's professional lives. Networking within female-centric communities and cultivating mentorship relationships with fellow women can open doors to career opportunities, mentorship, and professional development. Women support each other in navigating the challenges of the workplace, advocating for gender equality, and breaking down barriers to success, fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment.

5. Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth:

   Friendships encourage women to step outside their comfort zones, explore new interests, and embark on personal growth journeys. Through meaningful conversations, shared hobbies, and collaborative endeavors, women inspire each other to continuously learn and evolve. Whether it's trying out a new hobby, pursuing further education, or challenging outdated beliefs, friendships provide a supportive environment for women to expand their horizons and become the best versions of themselves.

Friendships and community are invaluable resources that empower women to thrive, grow, and lead fulfilling lives. By nurturing supportive relationships with fellow women, women find strength, resilience, and a sense of belonging that enriches every aspect of their lives. As we celebrate the power of sisterhood, let us continue to champion meaningful connections, foster inclusive communities, and uplift each other in our shared journey towards growth, empowerment, and fulfillment.

5 Truths About Adult Social Skills That Impact Your Mental Health

Navigating social interactions is an integral part of adult life, and the way we engage with others can have a profound impact on our mental well-being. While social skills may seem complex, they hold the power to shape our relationships, self-esteem, and overall mental health.

In this article, we'll explore five truths about adult social skills and their significance for your emotional wellness.

1. Social Skills Are Essential for Mental Health

It's no secret that human beings are social creatures. Our connections with others influence our emotional state, from joy and contentment to stress and loneliness. Engaging in positive social interactions provides a sense of belonging, which is a fundamental aspect of mental health. Healthy relationships create a support network that can offer comfort during difficult times, reducing the risk of mental health struggles.

2. Social Skills Can Be Developed and Enhanced

Contrary to the belief that social skills are innate traits, they are learned behaviors that can be cultivated and improved over time. Just like any other skill, practice and patience play a crucial role in enhancing your ability to communicate, empathize, and connect with others. By seeking out opportunities to engage in social interactions and learning from your experiences, you can gradually become more skilled in navigating diverse social scenarios.

3. Mindful Communication Nurtures Positive Interactions

Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful social interactions. Practicing mindfulness – being fully present in the moment – during conversations can significantly impact the quality of your connections. Active listening, showing empathy, and responding thoughtfully demonstrate that you value and respect the other person's thoughts and feelings. Such mindful communication fosters deeper understanding and strengthens bonds, contributing to improved mental well-being.

4. Boundaries Are Vital for Self-Care

While fostering connections is essential, maintaining healthy boundaries is equally crucial for your mental health. Clearly defining your personal limits in social interactions ensures that you engage in relationships that are respectful, supportive, and mutually beneficial. Boundaries protect your emotional energy, prevent burnout, and allow you to prioritize self-care – all of which are vital components of a well-balanced mental health regimen.

5. Quality Over Quantity in Social Connections

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to equate the number of social connections with popularity and well-being. However, the quality of your relationships matters more than the quantity. Cultivating a few deep and meaningful connections can provide a strong emotional support system that significantly contributes to your mental health. These connections offer a safe space for vulnerability and authenticity, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting emotional resilience.

In conclusion, adult social skills are not only relevant but crucial to your mental health. Engaging in positive social interactions, honing your communication abilities, setting healthy boundaries, and fostering meaningful connections all play a pivotal role in your emotional well-being. Remember that growth in social skills is a journey, and with consistent effort and a willingness to learn, you can transform your interactions and improve your overall mental health.

By recognizing these truths and actively working on your social skills, you empower yourself to create fulfilling relationships that positively impact your emotional and psychological state. As you navigate the intricacies of social interactions, remember that each step you take toward improvement contributes to your journey of self-discovery and mental well-being.

Do you have an interest in improving your social skills? Our social skills adult group is starting soon. Email us to reserve a seat today.

4 Ways to Sharpen Your Social Skills

Social skills are a vibrant part of life. They help us connect and share with each other, they help us grow and learn, not to mention they help us feel heard and understood. Social skills are an incredibly important skill that school do not always teach. Having the ability to socialize brings meaning and value to our life. Some of us are more skilled in this area, some of us could use improvement in this area. Either way, maybe you need a little guidance on how to improve your social skills?

Here are 4 ways to sharpen your social skills:

1. Overcome mental blocks:

   Try and let go of things holding you back mentally. Some of us shy away from conversations or meeting new people due to the fear of being judged. Let go of the “what if” thinking mentality and challenge yourself to be brave.

2. Create a safe mental space for yourself:

   By feeling safe in your own body you can regulate your nervous system. This can help you stay connected and grounded. You can create a safe space through calming techniques, meditations and grounding exercises. Use your senses to bring yourself back into the social space you are in.

3. Approach someone new:

   Go and say hi to a new person. This can be a challenge if we are worried about judgement and do not feel safe. Make it fun, and try an ice breaker to reduce your tension. A great way to do this is by using a joke or laughing to make the conversation flow and reduce your anxiety.

4. Go to a new place:

   Visit a new place and try to venture outside of your comfort zone. Getting out of your routine can help you learn to confront your fears. Start small, go to somewhere new within a proximity of your comfort zone and then branch off from there. This will also make your goal more attainable.

Social skills are such an important, under rated skill. To be successful and live our life to the fullest we need connection and a sense of belonging. Social skills can help us create a sense of community to live life alongside our family, friends and people of the world.

Our Therapists Share 6 Social Skills for a Healthier You

Humans are social beings. We seek connection, unity and inclusiveness. As we grow older it becomes more difficult to connect with others. We become more selective, stricter with social guidelines of whom we could befriend. Socializing can feel like hard work for many of us. What if there was a way that could help us socialize more openly, with confidence and positivity?

Here are 6 ways to help you regain connections and better socialize with others:

1. Be open minded:

   Realize that having an open mind is a key to making new lasting relationships. Going into a new place, event or social setting as if you are ready to make friends and listen to others. This mindset will help you attract the people you want to create new relationships with.

2. Love yourself:

   By loving and knowing who you are you can be more confident. Go into an event knowing what you bring to your relationships and portray this. This confidence can help others be more attracted to your energy, which will also make you appear to be more socially available.

3. Practice what you want to say:

   By rehearsing and reciting how to introduce yourself, you can make yourself less nervous about the event. Having a couple of funny lines or stories is a great way to meet people. We tend to gravitate to stories about dogs, pets, babies and common interests. Come up with a way to gain potential connections by having a couple of lines that you want to say.

4. Find people with common interests

   People like you, want to be friends with you. The key here is you have find them. Having similar interests makes us automatically more likely to connect and be more able to socialize with each other. When we have similarities a group or bond can naturally grow.

5. Know your non-negotiables:

   We all have those pet peeves or values that are deal breakers in any relationship. Go into a socially setting knowing what your non-negotiable are. For some people it is telling the truth, for others it is a specific sense of humor, or possibly even an affinity for dogs. Know what your deal breakers are in a relationship and if you hear them when you are getting to know someone, realize this may be ultimately what breaks the relationship.

6. Go out and practice:

   Try, try and try again. The more you expose yourself to social settings and new people, the more practice you will have in socializing. This will make you better equipped to meet others and help you lower any social anxiety. Take baby steps and slowly but surely put yourself out there. You can do this!

Socializing in this post pandemic era is a struggle. Humana want to feel as a part of a community and culturally some of us seek this more often as well. People have become very used to isolation and are not even aware of how our social skills may have regressed. It is important to be empathetic with yourself, and help yourself get back out there again. Trying to connect, gaining more confidence in your social abilities and finding a great group of friends are all things you can accomplish.

Have you heard about our Serene Mind Social Skills Groups? Coming this fall we will have a social skills group for kids, teens and young adults. Each group will be geared to a different age group. We hope you come socialize with us!

How + Why to Prioritize Your Self Care

In a culture and society that is all about the hustle and bustle, self-care often takes a backseat to things we find ”productive” like work, exercise, and chores around the house. What is important to learn is that self-care is productive, and very important for our health and wellbeing. Self-care helps us give our minds a break and to relax.

Unplugging from the constant stimulation of texts, busy work schedules, to-do lists and helps us feel more into our parasympathetic nervous system and release from the on-edge feelings of always being connected.

Taking the time for self-care will actually improve your productivity- helping you feel energized and refreshed.

• Eat Well

• With our fast-paced lifestyle, it is easy to swing by a drive-thru fast-food restaurant or pick up a grab-n-go meal from your local grocery store. Grant yourself just 30 minutes each week to create a meal plan for yourself. Meal prepping is helpful to create an easy and quick meal that can be stored in the fridge and heated up in minutes. By taking a small amount of time during the week to prep and plan meals, you are saving more time (and money!) in the long run- not to mention fueling yourself with higher quality ingredients and important nutrients that fast food and frozen/prepackaged meals can’t provide.

• Take a Break from Social Media

• Find yourself constantly scrolling? This is a hint that you may be overstimulated or bored. Let yourself rest by unplugging, even if it is just for an hour. Constantly staying connected keeps our brains on overdrive, taking away from the present moment.

• Maintain your Sleep Schedule

• Up late to meet that deadline? Staying up to cram for an exam? Indulging in a Netflix marathon until 2am? When these habits pile up, it starts to take a toll on your physical, and even mental health. Sleep is the body’s way of regenerating, and it should be treated as a non- negotiable self-care routine. Create a schedule that works best for you and try to stick with it. Go to bed around the same time each night so your body creates a natural rhythm. Waking up feeling rested and refreshed will help you feel even more productive in your day-to-day tasks and activates.

• Social Time

• Connect with you friends (in person!) Need we say more? Social time is so important for our health and wellbeing. Feeling connected and that we belong is crucial to our sense of self-esteem and emotional health. Call up a friend or family member and make plans, even if it is just for a quick coffee meet-up. Even short interactions can help foster and nourish the foundation of our relationships and help us feel supported and secure.

• Get Bored; Embrace Leisure

• It is easy to pick up your phone and scroll when you are feeling bored or uneasy. When you’re feeling bored, let the creativity take over. Pick up the paintbrushes and create something new! Or maybe grab your notebook and start those journaling prompts you’ve been piling up. Sign up for that last minute cycle class.

• When you give yourself space to be bored and have free time, you’ll start to remember the things you enjoy and want to engage in more often. Sometimes the spur of the moment leisure activities can spark even more creativity and inspiration in other areas of your life!

Looking for a therapist or life coach to help you on your self-care journey? We are here to help. Email us at hello@serenemindpsych.com or give us a call at 813.321.8280 to set up an intake appointment to see if one of our therapists can aid you in your healing journey.

Relationship Therapists Share: What are the Signs of a Codependent Relationship?

Codependent relationships are more common than we realize. These relationships are not only present in romantic partners; but can also be a dysfunctional dynamic in friendships, parent/child relationships, and even work relationships.

Codependent behaviors generally stem from social childhood or your teen years. Some factors that can contribute to these behaviors are:

- Experiencing abuse

- Having a parent or family member who suffers from an addiction, illness, or other health impairment

- Growing up with a controlling parent or caregiver

- Experiencing abandonment

- Experiencing divorce

- Being bullied as a child

In a codependent relationship, there is a person who is a caretaker and a person who takes advantage of the caretaking behaviors. Both individuals in the relationship are dependent on the behaviors of the other, feeling like they need the other person in their lives to function.

There is a need to be needed for the caretaker, and a need to be taken care of from the other individual in the relationship. There are several indicators that you could possibly be in a codependent relationship.

Here are a few factors to help you determine if you are:

People Pleasing

Putting your needs aside to please your partner or other party in your relationship is a main sign of a codependent relationship. At first, these actions may seem like a loving gesture of compassion, but then start to spiral into an unhealthy habit. The caretaking individual in the relationship often values the opinions of others rather than listening to their own intuition or following their preferences.

They want to make others happy, in fear that others won’t love or even like them anymore if they push back or disagree. Often times, the caretaker does not like to make decisions without the approval and input of the other individual of their codependent relationship, or even others in their lives. People pleasing becomes a currency to be liked or loved by others- needing this affection from others, but especially the other person in the codependent relationship. This stems from the codependent relationship and can start to bleed into other relationships.

Lack of Boundaries

The concept of emotional (and sometimes physical) boundaries can be blurred in codependent relationships. For the caretaking individual, they may feel underappreciated by the other person; yet continue to please them and be mistreated. They may offer consistent unsolicited advice, enable inappropriate or unacceptable behavior, and sometimes even feel responsible for the other person’s actions.

For the individual who takes advantage of the caretaker, they may push the envelope in terms of boundaries. This person is typically aware of the unconditional love and support of the caretaker, so they often feel comfortable mistreating, taking advantage, and disregarding the feelings of the caretaker. Both people in the relationship can fall into a pattern of denial about their behaviors within the relationship.

Self Esteem Challenges

For the caretaking individual, their self-esteem, self-worth, and self- image usually revolves around the assurance, validation, and approval of the other party in the relationship. They lack inner trust and confidence in many cases. There is a great fear of being rejected, disliked, or viewed negatively. Sometimes these feelings evolve and creates a victim mentality. These individuals often do not like to be alone and feel comfort when in the company of others, especially the other half of the codependent relationship.

For the individual who takes advantage of the caretaker, they often have an inflated self- esteem and ego. They feel they are worthy of the consistent caregiving treatment and expect and accept nothing else.

Do you feel like you are in a codependent relationship? Are you looking to break free from the relationship patterns you have found yourself in? At Serene Mind, we are here to help. You can also email us at hello@serenemindpsych.com or give us a call at 813.321.8280 to set up an intake appointment to see if one of our therapists is a good fit for you!

Our Relationship Therapists Share How to Cope with Friendship Breakups

Friendship breakups can feel as heartbreaking and disappointing as romantic splits. Sometimes the paths of our lives start to move in different directions and our friendships evolve. The friendships we create can be for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. We connect with others based on common interests, opinions, and life circumstances.

The endings of these relationships can leave us feeling lost and confused. Friendships can end because of a specific event or issue, or sometimes they can slowly diminish without us even realizing it.

Here are some tips our therapists have put together to aid you in navigating a friendship breakup.

Why Do friendships end?

-Breaking of trust

-Physical or emotional distance

-Difference in views

-Misunderstandings or disagreements

- Unresolved power differential

- Abuse

How to Cope with friendship breakups:

1) Process the relationship dynamic

Give yourself the space and time to honor the relationship and grieve the loss of it going forward. Take the time to evaluate the lessons learned within the friendship and what good came out of the relationship.

These are some questions to sit on and ask yourself when processing the shifting of your friendship. Did the friendship teach you something? Did you subconsciously back out of the relationship, or put in more than the other party? What memories can you look back on and still be fond of? Where can you take accountability in challenges within the relationship? How can you grow and learn from this relationship dynamic so It does not develop in other friendships?

It may feel supportive to process the relationship dynamic with a trusted person like another friend, family member, or professional mental health counselor to help recognize any blind spots that you might be missing in your reflection.

2) Lean into self-care:

Like any breakup or loss in your life, friendship break ups can create feelings of grief, sadness, and even anger. Channel these feelings and energy into yourself care practices. Get out for a walk in nature, listen to your favorite music, treat yourself to your favorite meal. Being extra gentle with yourself when processing the ending of the friendship. It is okay to feel sad, angry, or maybe even resentful for a period of time. This is normal and natural.

When you feel ready, release the emotions that arise in healthy ways that feel safe and nourishing to you. Emotions are motivators and encouragers of movement-allow yourself to move and release the feelings and thoughts that come up that do not serve you.

3) Create space for new friendships:

Have you ever heard the saying, “when one door closes, another opens”? When you create the space for other friends or new friends, these connections have room to grow and blossom.

Dedicate your time and energy into relationships and friendships that feel nourishing during this time. When we put our thought and energy into relationships that have ended, are toxic, or are struggling, we often forget about the relationships that are supportive and healthy for us- and perhaps are even missing opportunities for potential friendships that could start to grow from even the smallest of interactions. If it feels resonate to you, try a new fitness class, neighborhood meet up, or social group- you never know what connections could be waiting for you unless you put forth effort and put yourself out there!

Just like relationships with family, colleagues, and even romantic relationships, break-ups do not have to last forever. Sometimes a “break” is necessary to move and shift within the relationship and taking time and space from a friendship can help heal some of the broken parts within the dynamic. Other times, a friendship breakup is the healthiest decision for all. All of these experiences help us grow as individuals and teaches us lessons on not only how to be a friend to others, but a friend to ourselves.

Are you struggling with a friendship breakup? We have several relationship therapists at Serene Mind who can help you process these transitions and explore these relationship dynamics. If you feel you need support, please feel free to reach out to us at hello@serenemindpysch.com, or call us at 813.321.8280. We are here to help you while you continue on your path!

Our Therapists Share 3 Ways Social Media Impacts Mental Health

In our modern day and age, social media has dominated communication in many different areas. Connecting with friends and family through messages, sharing pictures of your life, shopping, dating, and even networking to further your career can be done all from a tiny screen that you can tote in your pocket. There are thousands of apps that can fit virtually any need, and most have a social component within the app. Although there can be many positives with the rise of social media, there are also some attributes to these apps that can negatively impact mental and emotional health.

1. Instant Gratification

Getting an immediate reward, or instant gratification is a common product of regular social media use. Being able to speak to someone immediately, purchase goods, or even scrolling constantly being introduced to different stimuli can create a sense of power and control.

A chemical in the body called dopamine is released when we partake in instant gratification behaviors, and when participated in often, can change an individual’s behavior completely. Needing to be constantly stimulated (example: scrolling, checking texts or emails, etc.) releases dopamine and when this is done frequently, the body becomes overstimulated. This can create feelings of anxiety and overwhelm when instant gratification is unavailable to an individual who is used to it. This is also a way to disconnect and disassociate from needing to problem solve or wait for stimuli to present itself.

The more we become accustomed to the instant gratification, the more we seek this pleasurable activity. This can lead us down a spiral and ultimately lead to great disappointment.

2. The Comparison Game

Seeing others on social media posting their achievements, purchases, and even daily life can create a “comparison game” within. This game can turn into a rabbit hole of feelings and thoughts such as, “Why can’t I have those things?”, “They are so much more attractive than me”, “They must be rich to afford that”. These comparisons are hurtful, lead to expectations that are unattainable and unrealistic.

Most people post the best of their worlds on their social media platforms. When seeing the best parts of someone’s life through pictures or word on a screen, it is easy to forget that they are humans too- people that have challenges, difficulties, and vulnerabilities.

The Comparison Game can also lead to FOMO, or “Fear of Missing Out”, where individuals feel like they don’t fit in or belong with their peers. Constant exposure to these platforms can create feelings of shame, guilt, not feeling worthy, and even missing out on things they think they may deserve or wish they could have. It is important to keep in check the realities of each post and person posting.

3. Cyberbullying

Within the last 10 years the popularity of social media platforms has increased, and so has cyberbullying. Cyberbullying can have tremendous effects on a person’s self-image, self-esteem, and social skills.

Many individuals find it easier to argue, make fun of, and even harass others through a digital format rather than in real life, face-to- face interactions. When prolonged and unreported, cyberbullying can take an extreme toll on a person’s mental and emotional health, and even start to affect their physical health. It is hard to escape bullies on social media, they are constantly there and you may feel as if it is out of control.

The world of social media is a new territory for many of us. We have no way of knowing what further studies or future generations will be impacted by the decisions we make on social media today. It is a scary and unfamiliar world for ourselves, our kids and teens. Always remember that you have the power to control the amount you use, the platforms you access and how accessible you are in the realm of social media.

Are you feeling that you are experiencing negative thoughts or feelings due to social media use? We are here to help. Email us at hello@serenemindpsych.com or give us a call at 813.321.8280 to set up an intake appointment to see if one of our therapists can aid you in your healing journey.

The Importance of Social Skills for Teens: Overcoming Isolation and Building Connections

Parents, are you looking for ways to help your teen develop social skills? As our young ones grow older, they need to learn how to interact with other people in real life and not just behind computer screens. This means learning how to talk and get along with others at school, in after-school activities, and at home. Having strong social skills can help teens build relationships, communicate clearly, and feel more confident in their skin.

At Serene Mind Counseling and Evaluations, we understand the importance of social skills for teens and offer a variety of programs and services to help support their growth. Let's dive into more details on why teens need to develop social skills from an early age and how we can support them through this delicate process. Are you curious to learn more? Let's get started!

Why are social skills important for teens?

Developing social skills is crucial for teenagers as they navigate their relationships with peers, family, and teachers. By developing strong social skills, they can effectively communicate their thoughts and feelings, manage conflicts, and establish and maintain meaningful relationships. Social skills are essential for success not only in academic settings but also in their future professional lives. These skills include collaboration, teamwork, and leadership, which are highly valued by employers.

Furthermore, according to a recent study by Brooking.edu this is also important because:

“During the teen years, our minds change in the way we remember, think, reason, focus attention, make decisions, and relate to others. From around age twelve to age twenty-four, there is a burst of growth and maturation taking place as never before in our lives. Understanding the nature of these changes can help us create a more positive and productive life journey.”

– Daniel Seigel, clinical professor of psychiatry at the UCLA School of Medicine

Also, in today's fast-paced digital world, social skills have become more critical than ever. The rise of social media and technology has transformed the way teens communicate and interact, making it even more crucial to develop face-to-face communication skills. Don't let your teen get lost behind their screens, let's discuss more ways we can help!

How Can Serene Mind Counseling and Evaluations Help? - Teen Social Skills Group Launching Again This Summer

At Serene Mind Counseling and Evaluations, we offer a variety of programs and services designed to support teens in developing social skills. Our team of experienced therapists works closely with teens to identify their specific needs and goals and create customized plans for their growth.

One of our most popular programs is our Teen Social Skills Group, which provides a safe and supportive environment for teens to practice social skills, build relationships, and learn new communication techniques in the Tampa area. Led by experienced therapists, our Teen Social Skills Group is dedicated to focusing on developing skills such as active listening, empathy, assertiveness, and conflict resolution.

In addition to our Social Skills Group, we offer individual therapy sessions that address specific social skill challenges, such as social anxiety or difficulty making friends. Our therapists use evidence-based techniques to help teens overcome these challenges and develop confidence in their social interactions.

Now enough about how we can support, let's get deeper into how you can support your teen as they develop their social skills.

How Can Parents Support Their Teen's Social Skill Development?

To assist your teen in enhancing their social skills, here are a few suggestions for parents:

• Encourage positive peer interactions – Encourage your teen to find friends that share similar interests or values and allow them to spend some time with them.

• Model positive social skills – Lead by example and show your teen how to interact positively with others.

• Create family conversations – Create a safe space for your teen to talk about their feelings and experiences with others around the dinner table.

• Praise good behavior – Let your teen know when they are demonstrating good social skills and provide positive reinforcement. If they make a new friend or effectively resolve a conflict with a classmate, make sure to recognize their accomplishments and affirm them.

• Set boundaries – Establish clear expectations for how your teen should and should not behave in social settings.

The Benefits of Developing Social Skills

To further elaborate, here are some more benefits of developing social skills that can have a profound impact on a teen's life, both now and in the future. Some of the benefits of building social skills include:

• Improved communication and conflict-resolution abilities

• Increased self-esteem and confidence

• Greater success in academics and careers

• More meaningful and fulfilling relationships

• Reduced stress and anxiety in social situations

At Serene Mind Counseling and Evaluations, we believe that every teen has the potential to develop strong social skills and thrive in their relationships and social interactions. Our programs and services are designed to provide the support, guidance, and resources necessary to help teens achieve their full potential.

Conclusion

In today's fast-paced digital world, social skills are more important than ever for teens. 

At Serene Mind Counseling and Evaluations, we’re here for you! Whether it's through our Teen Social Skills Group that will be launching this summer or our individual therapy sessions, our team of experienced therapists is committed to helping teens achieve their full potential.

If you're interested in learning more about our services, don't hesitate to reach out today! And remember, at Serene Mind Counseling, we're here to support you and your teen every step of the way.

10 Keys to A Healthy Friendship - From a Mental Health Counselor

Friendship is an essential part of our lives. Friends can bring the joy, support, and companionship we need to thrive. However, not all friendships are healthy. It is important to recognize which friends are bringing positivity into your life, and focus on building upon those strong foundations, rather than expending energy towards a toxic friendship.

Here are 10 qualities to look for in a great friend:

1. They respect your boundaries

2. They build you up, rather than tear you down

3. They make you laugh

4. They support you during the good and the bad times

5. They are non-judgmental

6. They reciprocate the effort you put into the friendship

7. They are dependable

8. They actively listen to you

9. They love and accept you just the way you are

10. They are loyal and trustworthy

Remember, friendships are a two-way street; these are traits you should also strive to possess in order to be a great friend yourself.

School is in Session, Take Care of Your Mental Health

Back to school season is here and just like that another school year begins! Sports, clubs, extracurricular activities, and crowded weekends have started and we want to make sure you are prepared, not only for the busy schedules and challenging coursework but to make sure you are taking care of your mental health. 

When life gets busy, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of it all. It is common to fall into old habits and allow life to take us over, feeling out of control. First, I want to remind you that this is normal, we cannot expect to be on top of everything at every moment of every day- we are going to get behind. That is okay. 

But, since we do not want to stay down for too long, here are some quick back-to-school tips to keep you or your kiddos in good spirits to begin and end this school year strong. 

Do the best you can to use positive language when talking about yourself and others.

Positive self-talk has been linked to better problem-solving abilities and different, more constructive thinking patterns than those who do not practice positive self-talk. These problem-solving skills help build interpersonal relationships, reduce stress and anxiety, and aid in maintaining friendships. 

Positive self-talk can be applied in different ways, all to make life easier for you. Here are some examples you may be able to adjust your negative self-talk as early as today:

1. Catch yourself.

   Taking the time to reflect on some of the things you may be telling yourself gives you the opportunity to notice, and make adjustments sooner the next time they come around. 

2. Challenge those thoughts.

   Your inner critic can be a nasty fella, are they always being truthful though? Using positive affirmations can be helpful in challenging those not-so-nice thoughts. Instead of saying “I am never going to get this right,” challenge that thought with “I am doing my best, and my best is enough today.”

3. Put it in your pocket.

   This may seem silly, but it is not uncommon for some of that negative self-talk to really take over and make you feel stuck or unable to escape them. Sometimes, you just need to take a break. After you have identified your negative thought, put them in your pocket, and decide to deal with them at another, more convenient time. Chances are that you will forget you put it there or you will not be feeling as critical later after the moment has passed. 

Incorporate routines wherever you can. 

Routines are difficult to maintain when life starts to get busy, but I am not referring to the same typical routines you may have thought of your whole life- wake up by 7am, make breakfast, shower, be in bed by 9pm kind of routine- Instead, try to just maintain hygiene by showering once a day, brushing your hair if you need to, brushing your teeth twice, and changing your clothes. Building routines around diet and exercise habits, like making sure you go outside at least once or eating at least 3 meals a day, can also be helpful in making sure you are providing your body with enough nourishment and activity to remain on task in school or in your extracurriculars. 

Lastly, don’t forget to take breaks. 

Though it may be hard to force ourselves to slow down and take a moment to ourselves, it is necessary. Breaks prevent burnout and no one wants to be burnt out. Even if you do not think you need one, it may be helpful for you to schedule one into your week, give yourself a chance to listen to your body, and adjust based on your needs. You deserve a break. You deserve to respect your own boundaries.

Treasure Your Friendships - Our Therapists Suggestions

Human beings want to love and be loved. We want to build connections that we treasure and make ourselves part of a group. We search for people whom we trust and appreciate. Some people may have smaller inner circles and others may have larger inner circles. Though we often think of a significant other when we hear the word love, there is another category of people who you may love even more- your best friends. 

Friendships are constantly evolving, ever changing, sometimes painful, but oftentimes rewarding. But, I am sure we all know when push comes to shove, friends get the short end of the stick in the hierarchy of life.

Between work, school, relationships, kids, family, and the ongoing list of things that need to be accomplished, where do we fit our friends?  When managing our own mental health, how do we manage our friendships too? 

The good news is, it is possible.

How do you fit in time for friends?

Sometimes all it takes is a phone call in between errands. A good rule of thumb would be simply to be honest. Tell your friends what you have planned and what is on your mind. True friends, who are around for the long haul will understand. I mean, let's be honest, they are probably busy too!

Other ways to keep a healthy balance would be to plan in advance, hang out in groups, or even ask them to join you on daily tasks. Balancing friendships and everyday chores can help you keep your routine entertaining and your friendships intact.

What makes a good friend?

Everyone has different values and non-negotiable items, these are things that we would not go back and forth on in relationships. Good friends typically have some common values like trustworthiness, being non-judgmental, being able to express empathy, and being a good listener.

What are signs of a poor friendship?

Poor friendships can hurt or harm us just as much as good friends can help and encourage us. Some common characteristics could be a friend who takes but does not have the time to give, they are not honest with you, or they do not support you. If you feel like you are constantly doing and giving, chances are you are doing too much for your friend. This might be a sign that you need to re-evaluate your friendship values.

Finding a great friend is like finding a hidden treasure, full of excitement and wonder.

We all know being a good friend is hard work and finding good friends is even harder. Being true to yourself and being honest with those you care about can help you navigate through this busy life, with some people who you truly love and appreciate!